Mediterranean Herb-Crusted Chicken over Fragrant Lemon Rice

🍽️ Mediterranean Herb-Crusted Chicken over Fragrant Lemon Rice

Servings: 3–4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

🛒 Ingredients

For Herb-Crusted Chicken:

• 3–4 chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp rosemary (crushed)

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ¾ tsp salt (or to taste)

• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tbsp grated parmesan (optional, but delicious)

For Fragrant Lemon Rice:

• 1½ cups basmati rice

• 3 cups water or chicken broth

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• ½ tsp salt

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or coriander (chopped)

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley

• Lemon slices

• Crumbled feta

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, basil, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

2. Coat chicken well with the mixture.

3. Sprinkle parmesan on top (optional).

4. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (30 minutes for best flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Pan Method:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil.

2. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

3. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

OR Oven Method:

1. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes.

2. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispy top.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Rice

1. Rinse rice until water runs clear.

2. In a pot, add rice, water/broth, salt, and oil.

3. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 12–15 minutes.

4. Turn off heat, fluff with fork.

5. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.

Step 4: Serve

• Spoon lemon rice onto plates.

• Top with sliced herb-crusted chicken.

• Garnish with parsley, feta, and lemon slices.

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase cooking time by 8–10 minutes.

Q2: Can I grill this chicken?

Absolutely! Grill on medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side.

Q3: What if I don’t have all the herbs?

Use Italian seasoning as a substitute.

Q4: Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but it needs more water and longer cooking time.

Q5: Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s mild and herby. Add chili flakes if you want heat.

Q6: Can I meal prep this?

Yes! Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q7: What sides go well with this?

Greek salad, roasted veggies, hummus, or tzatziki.